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A fifth generation Texan, Governor Rick Perry has taken an extraordinary Texas journey, from a tenant farm on the rolling plains of West Texas to the governor’s office of our nation’s second largest state.

As the state’s 47th and longest-serving governor, he is the first Texas A&M graduate to occupy the Governor’s Mansion. Starting in the United States Air Force and continuing over two decades in elected office, Rick Perry has led a life of public service.

Governor Perry’s administration has focused on creating a Texas of unlimited opportunity and prosperity by improving education, securing the border and increasing economic development.

Under Gov. Perry’s leadership,Texas has consistently been ranked as one of America’s best places for economic development and expansion due to low taxes, a predictable regulatory structure and sensible legal system. Since 2001, Gov. Perry has presided over $17 billion in tax cuts and the largest lawsuit reforms in the nation.

As a result,Texas has created more than 1 million net new jobs and reigned as the nation’s number one exporting state over the past six years. At last count, it was also home to more Fortune 500 companies than any other state.

Additionally, Gov. Perry has worked to make Texans safer by enhancing border security. He has directed millions of dollars toward enhanced technology and operations integrating local, state and federal law enforcement, significantly reducing the flow of contraband across the border and decreasing violent crime in the region.

Gov. Perry has also led the effort to greatly improve the quality of a Texas education by increasing standards and accountability, raising teacher pay and overhauling the state’s school finance structure.

Perry graduated fromTexas A&M University in 1972, where he was a member of the corps of cadets, a junior and senior yell leader, and an animal science major. Between 1972 and 1977, he served in the U.S. Air Force flying C-130 tactical airlift aircraft.

From 1985 to 1991, he served in the Texas House of Representatives. Perry was elected commissioner of agriculture in 1990, and served two terms. As lieutenant governor, Perry worked with legislators to pass a balanced budget that included record tax cuts, teacher pay raises, and a historic school funding increase.

Perry was sworn in as the 47th governor of Texas on December 21, 2000, and was elected to four-year terms in 2002, 2006, and 2010.

Perry is an Eagle Scout and a lifetime member of American Legion Post #75. Perry and his wife, Anita, have two children.